
7

"Run by Alexandria Restaurant Partners, I found Mia’s Italian Kitchen, a two-story newcomer at 100 King Street, offers a long menu packed with meat and cheese options, hot and cold sandwiches, half a dozen pastas, and 12 Sicilian-style, brick-oven pan pizzas available by the slice (starting at $5). The 180-seat space — designed by David Chenault — features thick marble wraparound bars, neon-colored couches, studded leather banquettes, high European-style doors painted a rustic red hue that open to the street, and an outdoor patio that adds another 30 seats. Early customers praise the spacious pizza bar overlooking the oven, say the slices are large, generous, and taste fantastic, and compliment service and the lively upstairs lounge and bar; many say they’ll be regulars. Standout dishes mentioned include the eggplant parm (called delicious), a refreshingly unique and abundant charcuterie tray, Pane Al Formaggio, silver dollar pancakes with blueberry compote, and pappardelle alla bolognese with clearly homemade wide noodles; starters such as the 12 oz meatball and the bread loaf with cheese were filling. At the same time, several reviewers warn the dining room can be overwhelmingly loud — especially with the wide-open doors/windows and street noise — and some feel many dishes and pasta portions are very heavy and large (with prices to match)." - Tierney Plumb